NWLC Statement on Year-End Fiscal Agreement

January 02, 2013

The following is a statement by Nancy Duff Campbell, Co-President of the National Women's Law Center:

"For millions of women and their families who live on the edge of their own fiscal cliff, yesterday's votes in Congress will give them some relief. Unemployment insurance and improved family tax credits will continue. Social Security, Medicaid and Medicare benefits — especially important for women — are protected, at least for the moment. The wealthiest Americans must pay a fairer share of taxes.

"But the agreement merely delays the "sequester" for two months, putting critical safety net programs back on the chopping block in the very near future. Indeed, some lawmakers are threatening to refuse to raise the debt ceiling — causing the nation to default on its debts and jeopardizing the entire economy — to force deep cuts in programs vital to women and their families. We urge President Obama and responsible members of Congress to reject this extortion and these cuts.

"The most urgent priorities are promoting job growth and creating a fairer tax system that provides the revenues necessary to expand opportunity for all. Millions of American women and men are counting on lawmakers to do the right thing."